MOTORISTS on the Princes Highway between Flynn and Rosedale will enjoy a smoother journey as they are switched on to a new section of road near Rosedale.
Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister and Gippsland MHR Darren Chester said the switch was a major step in the $260 million duplication of the highway between Sale and Traralgon, which will see almost 30 of the 43 kilometres completed by the end of 2019.
“This project is providing improved safety for locals and visitors to our region, while reducing travel times and improving freight efficiency,” Mr Chester said.
“We know that better roads not only improve lives, but can help save lives and prevent serious injury.
“The 8.3km section from Flynn to Rosedale is the longest in the overall project.”
State Roads Minister Luke Donnellan said switching traffic on to the new section of road means works could continue on the existing section of highway.
“Works on the section include constructing four new bridges, including two over Flynn’s Creek and two over Blind Joe’s Creek, along with five kilometres of new traffic lanes,” he said.
Eastern Victoria MLC Harriet Shing urged drivers to take caution with the changed traffic conditions.
“While the traffic is being physically switched on to the new section of road there will be some minor delays as traffic is redirected at Cricket St,” she said.
“Speed limit reductions and traffic controls will be in place and an increased number of workers and machinery will be in the area, so we urge motorists to be patient.”
The federal government is providing $210 million and the state government $50 million to duplicate the Princes Highway. Construction from Flynn to Rosedale is expected to be completed later this year.
